The Isle of Wight community rallied together by holding a mass mufti day today (Friday) to raise money for 17-year-old Arlo Lambie, who has been diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour.
Arlo, from Cowes, was diagnosed with the grade 4 tumour in October after suffering from multiple migraines. What began as a minor headache quickly spiralled into hydrocephalus, emergency neurosurgery and a daily regimen of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in Southampton.
He has been under the care of the NHS since his diagnosis but after months of research, Arlo’s family are now travelling to France, via a compassionate access scheme, for alternative treatment.
He recently started taking a drug called ONC20 and will have to travel once a month to Paris for a month’s supply of the medication.
To date, over £80,000 has been raised to help fund Arlo’s treatment – a figure set to skyrocket after this week’s monumental fundraising efforts.
Today, the ‘Wear What Makes You Happy Day’ saw more than 80 schools, pre-schools and businesses leave behind their uniforms and don clothing that brought a smile to their face to support the fundraising appeal for Arlo to access the medical care and support he needs.
A family friend, Taylor Willows, came up with the idea of a fundraiser mufti day with no specific theme, to allow the young people of the Island the chance to show their support and Arlo suggested the theme wear what makes you happy.
Gail Willows, family friend and event organiser said:
“When my son and I first started planning this initiative, we hoped that a few schools would join in.
“However, I am truly overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from the community here on the island.
“From the children inspired by Arlo’s story to the parents who have helped coordinate everything, and the headteachers sending their well wishes, the response has been incredible. We are proud to now have more than 80 schools and businesses involved.”
Ryde Academy was one of the schools taking part, raising well over £1,000 – with more still to come.
Will Doyle, Head of School, has said:
“All staff, students, parents and carers at Ryde Academy send their best wishes and endless support to Arlo and his family. We are in awe of his positivity and courage. Arlo will be in our thoughts both today as we all wear what makes us happy, and in the coming months as he continues his treatments”.
In response to this incredible community support, Arlo has said:
“I love the Island, it is a very special place, and I love the sense of community here, but I’m amazed at the support that we’ve received and I’m so very grateful. It was important for me from the start that whatever this journey involves, we make space for the happiness, fun and laughter.
“It’s not always easy, but I can’t think of a day yet that hasn’t included something to smile at and I hope that Wear What Makes You Happy Day brings a lot of smiles to everyone involved.”
Students at Theatretrain also got involved by wearing whatever makes them happy to their class on Saturday (8th February). A total of £312.52 was raised.
6-year-old Theatretrain student, Elsie-Marie Moody, said:
It’s important that we help because Arlo isn’t very well, and we need to raise money to help him better. The Isle of Wight is like a big family, and families always help each other.”
Julie Caudle, Company Director:
“Theatretrain is built on a foundation of community and kindness, and our staff and students showed that in full force for Arlo. The overwhelming support, from creative costumes to generous donations, was truly heartwarming. It’s inspiring to see young people come together to make a difference, proving that theatre isn’t just about performance—it’s about lifting each other up.”
Anyone wishing to donate to Arlo’s GoFundMe can visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/arlo-journey.
